"We cannot ask the fans of anything because there is freedom of expression," Ramos said in a news conference. "But we have to think about the team. We ask for there to be a good atmosphere and for the fans to enjoy the game.

"Sport is not politics and we have to separate them. As captain of Spain and of Real Madrid, I have the duty to unite the group. It hasn't been an easy week for anyone. I knew it was going to be a complicated week."

"I have a very good relationship with Gerard even though we think differently," Ramos said. "We have no problem between us."

Spain are three points clear of Italy at the top of Group G with two games remaining and can qualify for the World Cup on Friday if they better the Azzurri's result against Macedonia.

"We have not lost focus," Ramos said. "We are all united on one aim, which is the game against Albania and to take another step towards the World Cup. It would be my fourth World Cup and that fills me with pride."

Adriana Garcia is a Valencia-based football writer who covers La Liga for ESPN FC.